Dynamic Postural Stability in Pregnant Fallers, Non-fallers, and Non- Pregnant Controls

INTRODUCTION Approximately 27% of pregnant women report a fall during their pregnancies [1]. Pregnant women undergo numerous anatomical, physiological, and hormonal changes that may be related to the increased risk of falling. Studies of static balance in pregnant women reveal increased anterior-posterior center of pressure (COP) movement during pregnancy [2-4]. Dynamic postural control of pregnant women has not been investigated. It is unknown if pregnant women who have fallen have impaired postural control when compared to pregnant women who have not fallen or to nonpregnant women. Moreover, the effect of exercise on the incidence of falls has not been explored. The purpose of this study was to compare dynamic postural stability in pregnant women who have fallen during their pregnancies with those who have not and to a group of non-pregnant women. A second purpose was to examine the effect of exercise on fall incidence in our cohort.